Discomfort in My Sternum Area
At 20 years old and standing at 5'1" with a weight around 150 pounds, I am experiencing a concerning issue with my sternum. It feels as if it's being pushed inward, causing me significant pain and making it difficult to breathe. Curiously, when I press on the area, I notice a bony bump that seems to be protruding outwards. This situation is particularly troubling to me because it links back to an incident from about a year ago. At that time, I found myself trapped between a heavy object that pressed against my chest, accompanied by a disturbing cracking sound. I struggled to breathe and speak immediately following that episode, and now, I’m facing persistent discomfort. I would greatly appreciate any thoughts or recommendations regarding this matter.
Answers (1)
9/5/2025, 11:20:30 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to be concerned about the discomfort you're experiencing in your sternum area, especially given your history of injury. Your symptoms may indicate a few possibilities, including muscle strain, a costochondral injury (where ribs attach to the sternum), or even changes in the bone structure from the previous incident. It’s important to address both the pain and the underlying cause.
Explanation:
After the incident you described, it's possible that your sternum or surrounding tissues were injured, leading to discomfort that has persisted. The bony bump you feel could be related to bone healing or inflammation. These symptoms may cause difficulty with breathing if the pain intensifies or if movement is restricted.
Next Steps:
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Rest and Avoid Strain: Try to minimize any activities that may exacerbate the discomfort. Avoid heavy lifting or movements that strain your chest.
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Ice Therapy: Apply an ice pack to the area for 15-20 minutes which can help reduce inflammation and numb the pain. Make sure to wrap the ice pack in a cloth to protect your skin.
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Pain Relief: If comfortable, consider over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen. These can help reduce pain and inflammation, but follow the dosage instructions on the label.
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Posture and Breathing: Focus on maintaining a good posture to minimize pressure on your sternum. Practice deep and slow breathing while being mindful of any pain it may cause.
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Monitor Changes: Keep track of your symptoms, including the intensity of pain and any changes in your ability to breathe. If you notice significant worsening or if symptoms persist beyond a week, seek medical advice for further evaluation.
It's important not to ignore your discomfort, especially with your concerning injury history. You're taking the right step by seeking information, and focusing on these actions can help manage your symptoms effectively. Let me know if you need further clarification or additional advice.
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